Problems of the theoretical model applied to geosciences

Abstract

The present state of Earth sciences -particularly that of geography and geology is characterized by disagreement in views, whereas such dissension was overcome long ago in other lines of natural sciences ranging from physics to biology. The point is to unite not only the theoretical principles of Earth investigations from the viewpoints of geology and physical geography as requested by B.L. Lichkov (1962) some 30 years ago but also the principles of the approach to geological sciences, where geotectonics is the basic specialization determining the dominant trends. It is geotectonics that experiences a profound crisis, because it provides a number of hypotheses from ultramobilistic to ultrafixistic ones, such as characterized, for instance, by I. I. Tchebanenko (1985). It is believed that the most serious disadvantages of all hypotheses are the diametral differences in their conceptions and the subordination of empirically obtained data or proved experience to an idea that may not be invariably wrong but inadequate to the particular facts (V.Yu. Zabrodin 1987). At the present time, primary attention should be given to the integration of the basic findings of geology (geotectonics) and physical geography and of those related to astronomy (planetology) and physics. This is because the disciplines mentioned study the Earth both as a part of the cosmos and as a physical body of nearly spherical shape governed by the laws of symmetry (R Curie 1908; I. F. Shafranovskij; L. M. Plotnikov 1975). The data basing on the views on the role of the galactic year in the Earth's evolution and in the division of the Earth's history into geotectonic cycles (stages) are by far the most important among those obtained up to the present. In modern practice synergetics (Mesarovic 1973), ie a system approach using the principles of hierarchy and cyclicity, should serve as the initial common model. Such a model can also be useful in other branches, its universal validity being of decisive importance in its application to the Earth's sciences where it acts as an integrative factor. The Model of Endogenous Terrestrial Evolution